Middle East

June 14, 2024
Japanese
  1. From February 26 to March 1, four experts from the Middle East and North Africa region were invited to Japan to participate in the Seventh Dialogue on Countering Violent Extremism in the Middle East.
  2. The delegation discussed countermeasures against violent extremism, an issue shared by the Middle East and Japan, through participating in an interreligious dialogue at the Myoshinji Shunkoin Temple in Kyoto as well as visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial　Museum and other related facilities, UN Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) Hiroshima Office, Saishukai (*offenders rehabilitation services), Yachimachi Juvenile Training School and discussion with Accept International (NPO).
  3. The delegation also participated in a roundtable discussion with Japanese experts on the theme of “Treatment of Returnees” on February 29. and exchanged views on the role Japan should play in the field of countering violent extremism. The participants stated that it would be beneficial to continue such dialogue in the future and expressed their gratitude to the Government of Japan for hosting the dialogue.
  4. On March 1, the delegation paid a courtesy call on Mr. FUKAZAWA Yoichi, Parliamentary Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan. Parliamentary Vice Minister Fukazawa stated that Japan shares with Islam a spirit that emphasizes “harmony” and “tolerance,”and will continue to contribute to peace and prosperity in the international community, including through countering violent extremism, from the standpoint of having longstanding good relations with countries in the Middle East. In response, the delegation expressed their gratitude for the invitation to Japan, and expressed that they hope to utilize the knowledge gained during the visit in the future, and expect Japan to play a role in countering violent extremism.
(Reference) Delegation list
  • Mr. Saeed Al-Jyashy, Strategic Affairs Advisor, National Security Advisory
  • Dr. Tarek Ladjal, Advisor, Sawt Al-Hikma Center for Countering the Extreme Narratives
  • Dr. Rafat Al-Shdefat, Major, Head of the Center for Human Rights, Public Security Directorate
  • Ms. Mariam Hamid, Translator Specialist, Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism
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